Flights to Carmen, Central Visayas from NT$1,266

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Carmen escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Carmen, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.